Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller has issued a statement calling for Jamaicans to remain calm in light of the prolonged official counting ballots in some constituencies.

"With reports of tension in some areas across the island the Prime Minister is appealing to supporters of both parties to remain calm as the constitutionally prescribed processes continue," a spokesperson from the Office of the Prime Minister said in the statement.

"All Jamaicans have a responsibility to ensure that Jamaica's reputation as a mature democracy is preserved and nothing causes hurt to anyone," Simpson Miller is quoted as saying.

According to the Prime Minister, Jamaica has made important economic gains and the country cannot afford to reverse them at this time.